Vidic returns to Manchester United squad

United have been without their captain since he underwent knee surgery in September and, although he may not start against the Black Cats, manager Sir Alex Ferguson said he was delighted to have him back.

"Nemanja is back in the squad, which is big news in terms of the experience he brings to the squad," Ferguson said. "His defensive qualities are well renowned by now, and he is our captain.

"Whether I start him or not is another issue, but it is good to have him back."

United, however, will be without defender Jonny Evans, who has been ruled out by a hamstring problem suffered in the derby win at Manchester City.

"I felt it would be a problem for Jonny at the start of the second half last week,'' Ferguson said.

Ferguson also confirmed that there were no ongoing concerns over Rio Ferdinand after the defender suffered a gash to the head when he was hit by a coin thrown from the crowd during the City match.

The United boss said midfielder Shinji Kagawa would begin training with the first-team again after a two-month absence.

"Shinji Kagawa should start training with the first team on Monday, which is good news," he said. "He's doing very well now."